Exploring the Largest Air Force Bases Across Asia

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Asia is not only known as the continent with the largest population in the world, but also as a region with significant air military strength in global geopolitical dynamics. To support air power operational capabilities, several Asian countries have built and operate large air force military bases with diverse strategic functions.

These bases serve as training centers and weapons storage facilities, but are key points for territorial defense, airspace surveillance, and military power projection in the surrounding regions.

Quoted from Jagran Josh, here is a list of the ten largest and most significant Asian air forces, based on physical size, strategic roles, and the types and numbers of combat aircraft operated.

1. Hindan Air Force Station - India
Under the command of the Western Air Command, Hindan Air Force Station is the largest air base in the Asian region, covering an area of 55 square kilometers. Situated near the northern region of India, this base plays a crucial role in the national air defense system, particularly in securing the country's northern borders. Hindan is home to several key fighter jets of the Indian Air Force, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and MiG-29, and supports various strategic air operations.

2. Duyun Air Base - China
Located in the mountainous Guizhou Province, Duyun Air Base is a major aerial installation operated by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The base has long runways and underground hangar facilities to protect aircraft from attacks. The fifth-generation stealth fighter, J-20, a source of pride for China, is part of the fleet operated at this base, making it a strategic point in China's air power projection in East Asia.

3. Gwadar Air Base - Pakistan
Gwadar Air Base is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea and occupies a highly strategic geographic position, especially due to its proximity to the deep-sea port of Gwadar. This location also makes it a critical component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative. In addition to its military function, the base also holds high economic and geopolitical value. It is prepared to support maritime surveillance missions and secure vital sea trade routes.

4. Hamamatsu Air Base - Japan
Hamamatsu is one of the main bases of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and plays a crucial role in Japan's national air defense system. The facility houses F-15J fighter jets and airborne early warning and control aircraft E-7A Wedgetail. This base strengthens Japan's ability to rapidly and efficiently detect and respond to air threats, especially in the country's eastern region, which is vulnerable to regional tensions.

5. Osan Air Base - South Korea
As an integral part of the military alliance between South Korea and the United States, Osan Air Base is located south of the capital city of Seoul and serves as a major air power center in the Korean Peninsula. The United States Air Force operates this base, which houses fighter aircraft like the F-16 Fighting Falcon. In addition to its air defense function, Osan also plays a role in conflict prevention missions and maintaining regional stability amid potential escalations from North Korea.

6. Khanboudran Air Base - Iran
The Khanboudran Air Base is in the western desert region of Iran, which serves as a primary training and operational center for the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF). The base features extensive runways and tactical training areas to support the development of national air capabilities. Fighter jets such as the F-14 Tomcat and MiG-29 operate at this base, which is also utilized for combat training and strategic reconnaissance missions.

7. Balikpapan Air Force Base - Indonesia
Located in East Kalimantan, Balikpapan Air Force Base is one of the most strategic bases of the Indonesian Air Force. Its location in the heart of Southeast Asia enables Indonesia to respond quickly to regional threats and maintain maritime security in the densely active water region. The base operates Sukhoi Su-30MK and F-16 fighter aircraft, a crucial point for air patrols and humanitarian operations.

8. Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base - Thailand
As the largest and primary base of the Royal Thai Air Force, Korat Air Force Base is located in the country's central region, featuring infrastructure supporting the operation of various aircraft types. The main fleet at this base includes the F-16 Fighting Falcon and JAS-39 Gripen, used in air defense missions, training, and participation in international joint exercises.

9. Novosibirsk Tolmachevo Airport - Russia
Although primarily serving as a civilian airport, Tolmachevo Airport in Novosibirsk is also utilized by the Russian Air Force as a crucial military base for the Asian region. The base has facilities to support heavy combat aircraft such as the Tu-22M3 Backfire and Su-34 Fullback. With its strategic location in Siberia, Tolmachevo enables Russia to project its air power into the Central Asian and surrounding regions.

10. Utapao Royal Thai Navy Air Station - Thailand
Utapao is a military base owned by the Royal Thai Navy, located near the Gulf of Thailand. The facility features long runways and supports the operation of maritime patrol aircraft such as the P-3C Orion and anti-submarine aircraft S-2E Tracker. Utapao plays a central role in maintaining marine stability in Southeast Asia through its primary function of maritime surveillance and water area security.

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